Okay, so I loved the world building, the magic system, and the relationship between Wren and Hal. All of those elements, mixed with gothic Colwick Hall and whatever macabre events were happening there, had me invested in the book. However, it took much too long to get to Colwick. The book was longer than it needed to be. It was bogged down by unnecessary scenes and drama. I could not believe the amount of times you think Wren will escape only for her to be captured. The two countries being at war was interesting, and made a good back story for what was happening at Colwick. However, it also felt as though the book was trying to be so many things (a war story, a fantasy, a gothic/horror) that it started to fall flat under the weight of too much. Hal and Wren though were wonderful! Their chemistry, their anger, their working toward forgiveness. They worked to solve the mystery, helped each other while still unsure whether to trust the enemy. They complimented each other very well. I wish the story had been based mostly at Colwick Hall, it was the best narrative position for all of the details and character development. The relationship between Wren and her best friend, and commanding officer, Una, was fraught with tension. The two have a deep love for each other, one that at one point was romantic, but because of their work together could go no further. I was not a fan of Una, of her making Wren feel small for her emotions, for her helping others. She also does not show trust in Wren, even though Wren places all of her trust in Una. Una, though, has such great character development that she becomes a favourite. Overall, an interesting story involving two countries at war, each with different magical abilities and different belief systems. Danu and Vesria are in a cease fire at the beginning of this novel, but the disappearance of soldiers from both sides are threatening another altercation. Because of this, there are bad deeds and worse deals being made behind closed doors. Deals that could lead to more death, more war, more pain and loss. This book deals with political intrigue, with familial obligation and with the heaviness of a countries expectations. It also highlights the need for people who believe in change, in peace, who feel empathy for others. I recommend this novel if you love a mix of gothic/horror/fantasy.
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